Colgate-Palmolive Keeps the World Smiling

Executive SummaryThe objective of this RFI is to determine whether or not Colgate-Palmolive (C&P) should remain with SAP for their technology infrastructure, or if they should seek out other or new IT opportunities. C&P needs to determine what is important and whether or not IT supports it. We evaluate the current problem C&P is facing and the future trend of the technology. We reviewed SAP and its competitor, Oracle, to determine whether C&P should stay with their current provider and what advantages would be available to them from their current and other IT providers. C&P must have a very good handle on automation and rationalization. These two items being the two most common forms of organizational change because they are slow-changing and slow-moving. Not only that, but they also offer reasonable returns with minor risk (Laudon, Laudon, & Dass, 2010, p. 483). We also researched from C&P, SAP and Oracle’s annual report and find data and articles to prove our points. Colgate-Palmolive

Colgate-Palmolive (C&P) Company is a $15.3 billion multinational enterprise (MNE) that as of December 31, 2009 employs approximately 38,100 employees worldwide and serves people in more than 200 countries and territories. The company provides consumer products that help to make lives healthier and more enjoyable. They also focus on strong global brands in their core businesses — Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition. C&P is delivering strong global growth by following a tightly defined strategy to grow market shares for key products, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, bar and liquid soaps, deodorants, antiperspirants, dishwashing detergents, household cleaners, fabric conditioners and specialty pet food (C&P Annual Report, 2009). Truly global in scope, C&P sells its products in over 200 countries and territories and approximately 75% of sales come from international operations (Colgate.com, 2010). Analysis of Organization’s Current Problems